King Ranch Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

King Ranch Lake Dam, located in Elko, Georgia, is a private earth dam designed by Douglas Pope for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet, the dam spans 836 feet and holds a maximum storage capacity of 444 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Rocky Branch stream, features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite not being regulated by the state, King Ranch Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of 5 years. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, but it is deemed to meet safety guidelines for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 32 acres and a normal storage capacity of 216 acre-feet, the dam provides recreational opportunities while managing water resources effectively. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a vital structure in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, King Ranch Lake Dam serves as a prime example of a privately owned dam built for recreational purposes. With its unique design and location, the dam offers both leisure activities and water management benefits to the community. While it holds a low hazard potential, regular inspections and maintenance ensure its safety and functionality for years to come.

Dam Length

836

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

ROCKY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Hydraulic Height

19.5

Nid Storage

444

Structural Height

19.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.